Raspberry Ripple

The quince tree is blossoming along with everything else and its buds have a subtle stripey effect. The leaves are quite hairy too hinting at the fruit to come. I never really know what to do with the quince fruit and have attempted jelly and stewing, none to great effect. 

Last night's talk was very interesting - Robert has a pleasing and erudite presentation with lots of interesting connections and meanders, plus some good illustrations. Ceridwen - the Algerian pirates were mentioned. This event in 1631 was when a motley crew of Algerians, Turks and Dutchmen raided Baltimore and made off with 100 English settlers who were later sold into slavery. The main man in Robert's talk, William Hull, watched the ships sail by from his stronghold. 

Tomorrow we have a day in the field  - three possible holy wells, one promontory forts and a signal station -all resulting from my talk a week ago.